family dubrovnik and croatian islands adventure · dubrovnik to explore its winding limestone...
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Why book this trip?Why book this trip?
Based on the island of Lopud, just three quarters of an hour by ferry from Dubrovnik, this week long
active family holiday is ideal for water lovers. Spend the week exploring inlets, bays and neighbouring
islands by kayak. Learn how to SUP (stand up paddle boarding), cycle on Sipan island and venture into
Dubrovnik to explore its winding limestone streets and grand baroque buildings.
Snorkelling and swimming - In the crystal clear waters of the Adriatic
Stand up paddle board - Ideal for beginners or experienced paddle boarders. No previous experience
needed!
Kayaking between islands - Explore grottos and golden sandy beaches
Historic Dubrovnik - Exploring the alley ways and charming streets of Dubrovnik's old town
Family Dubrovnik andCroatian Islands AdventureCROATIA CROATIA - TRIP CODE - TRIP CODE FDIFDI
FAMILY
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ItineraryItinerary
Itineraries on some departure dates may differ, please select the itinerary that you wish to explore.
Arriving in Dubrovnik airport, transfer to the Port of Gruz to catch a mid afternoon ferry to the island of
Lopud. If arriving in Dubrovnik earlier in the day there is ample time to explore the old town before
joining the group at the port. Bags can be left at the ferry port. The ferry takes 55 minutes and offers
panoramic views of the bay of Dubrovnik as well as the outer islands. For those on later flights to
Dubrovnik, a private transfer to the port and later ferry is available, the latest arrival time on day 1 is
6pm.
Upon arrival in Lopud harbour we take a short walk to our guesthouse. Tonight we have a welcome
dinner at a local tavern.
A C C O M M O D AT I O N :
Lopud Guesthouse (or similar)
Grade: Standard Guesthouse
M E A L S PR O V I D E D : D I N N E R
I N C L U D E DM E A L S
Breakfast: 7Dinner: 2
T R I P STA F F
Explore TourLeader
Activity Guide(s)
T R A N SPO R T
BusFerry
A C C O M M O D AT I O N
7 nights standardguesthouse
T R I P PA C E :
RelaxedG R O U P SI ZE :
10 - 16
DAY 1DAY 1 - Join trip in Dubrovnik airport, ferry to Lopud Island - Join trip in Dubrovnik airport, ferry to Lopud Island
DAY 2DAY 2 - Introduction demonstration to sea kayaking. Paddle to the Green Grotto, swim and - Introduction demonstration to sea kayaking. Paddle to the Green Grotto, swim andsnorkelsnorkel
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Breakfast is served on the terrace offering views of the neighboring inlets and islands. After breakfast
take a short stroll down to our kayaking base for a introduction and safety demonstration to kayaking
including paddle strokes and getting comfortable in our boats. After the instructions we head out to
explore Lopud's coastline starting in a shallow protected bay before venturing out across the channel to
the island of Sipan. Heading south and west, we first paddle to a natural stone arch which is a perfect
photo-op. Under this archway, you can see the Adriatic sea open up in all of its glory.
Next, we regroup and paddle along the coast to the hidden Green Cave. We'll then tie up our kayaks and
get ready for a wonderful morning of swimming and cliff jumping. But first, we'll grab snorkels and masks
and swim down through the cave's opening. Inside,there is plenty of room for swimming and even
standing. This large, and safe, cave opens up to reveal an ethereal green light caused by the sun's
reflection off the sandy bottom.
We continue on to the delightful fishing village of Sudurad on Sipan, for a lunch of local delicacies (not
included). Following lunch, we paddle back toward Lopud and our guesthouse. Total kayaking distance -
10 km
A C C O M M O D AT I O N :
Lopud Guesthouse (or similar)
Grade: Standard Guesthouse
M E A L S PR O V I D E D : B R E A KFA ST
Returning to our sea kayaks after breakfast, we paddle from the harbour around to the opposite side of
Lopud, the wonderful sandy beach of Sunj where we spend the morning playing water games.
An especially popular beach game in Croatia is called Picigin. It's basically 'keepie-uppie' ball game where
the goal is to keep the ball in the air as long as possible, but in acrobatic fashion with a great deal of
jumping, diving and kicking. There are no winners or losers, just great fun!
In the afternoon we'll have time to swim, snorkel, and jump from rocks, which are all very safe with plenty
of deep water. Leaving our kayaks on Sunj beach, we walk back over the island to our guesthouse, a
distance of just over 2km along a mainly flat track, to get ready for dinner.
A C C O M M O D AT I O N :
Lopud Guesthouse (or similar)
Grade: Standard Guesthouse
DAY 3DAY 3 - Sea kayak to Sunj Beach on Lopud, beach games. Walk back to Lopud town along - Sea kayak to Sunj Beach on Lopud, beach games. Walk back to Lopud town alongisland tracksisland tracks
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M E A L S PR O V I D E D : B R E A KFA ST
Stand up paddle boarding has recently had a surge of popularity around the world. Originating in Hawaii,
its a sport that is accessible to everyone, easy to learn and lots of fun. The inflatable boards are very
buoyant allowing for maximum stability, a tall paddle is used to navigate and propel the board.
After an introductory lesson we have the rest of the morning to put into practice and refine our skills in
the calm waters of the Adriatic. Late afternoon we walk across the island to reclaim our kayaks and
paddle back to our kayak base, pausing to see the sunset. The perfect way to end the day.
A C C O M M O D AT I O N :
Lopud Guesthouse (or similar)
Grade: Standard Guesthouse
M E A L S PR O V I D E D : B R E A KFA ST
After an early breakfast, take the ferry back over to the mainland to see Dubrovnik's Old Town. Now
essentially fully restored following damage from shelling in the Siege of Dubrovnik in 1991-92, the Old
Town still retains its unique atmosphere and charm. UNESCO granted it World Cultural Heritage status,
as one of the world's finest examples of a fortified Medieval town. For fans of Game of Thrones, the
iconic red-tiled roofs of Dubrovnik will be familiar as the setting of King's Landing, the seat of power in
the Seven Kingdoms.
Our local guide will accompany us to the city gates, providing an overview of the best sights to take in,
followed by free time to further explore the town under your own steam. You may choose to get a view
from above by taking the cable car to a nearby hilltop or by enjoying a walk around the city walls (the
walk of the full course is 1940 metres). You may also like to visit the Franciscan Monastery, Dominican
Monastery or the cathedral in the old town. Return to Lopud by ferry late afternoon.
A C C O M M O D AT I O N :
Lopud Guesthouse (or similar)
Grade: Standard Guesthouse
DAY 4DAY 4 - Introduction to 'SUP' stand up paddle boarding with a full day to practice. Sunset - Introduction to 'SUP' stand up paddle boarding with a full day to practice. Sunsetpaddle from Sunj to Lopud townpaddle from Sunj to Lopud town
DAY 5DAY 5 - Early morning ferry to Dubrovnik, full day for sightseeing, late afternoon ferry back - Early morning ferry to Dubrovnik, full day for sightseeing, late afternoon ferry backto Lopudto Lopud
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M E A L S PR O V I D E D : B R E A KFA ST
This morning we have further time to try stand up paddle boarding in the calm waters of the bay.
Late morning take the ferry to Sipan, the largest and most scenic island in the Elaphiti Archipelago and its
harbor town of Sudurad. Trade our paddles for pedals and explore Sipan island, a traditional fishing
island with just two villages and one road connecting the two.
Biking across the middle part of the island which is mostly flat with old olive growths, vineyards, stone
villas and wild fig trees (a perfect dessert for late August, as they can be picked freely while biking past
them). We make a stop at the Saint Spirit fort-church, built in 14th century as a defense against Turks. Its
possible to climb up the steps onto a flat roof and see the whole of Sipan island from the top.
Continuing to the village of Sipanska Luka on the island's north end, we'll stop for a bite to eat at one of
the region's best kept restaurant secrets. Relax with a swim in the Adriatic before heading back the way
we came, making the short ferry trip back across to Lopud and our guesthouse.
A C C O M M O D AT I O N :
Lopud Guesthouse (or similar)
Grade: Standard Guesthouse
M E A L S PR O V I D E D : B R E A KFA ST
Designed as a free day, be as active as you want, enjoying more time on the Lopud's beaches or take an
excursion via ferry back to Dubrovnik for further sightseeing or go on our optional white water rafting
tour to beautiful Cetina river (suitable for children over 8 years old) or take a day trip to Montenegro,
just over 90 kilometres from Dubrovnik and home to the historic lakeside town of Kotor.
A C C O M M O D AT I O N :
Lopud Guesthouse (or similar)
Grade: Standard Guesthouse
DAY 6DAY 6 - SUP in the morning, afternoon ferry to Sipan island, biking on the island and beach - SUP in the morning, afternoon ferry to Sipan island, biking on the island and beachtimetime
DAY 7DAY 7 - Free day. Optional day trip to the incredible fjord-like scenery of Montenegro - Free day. Optional day trip to the incredible fjord-like scenery of Montenegro
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M E A L S PR O V I D E D : B R E A KFA ST & D I N N E R
After breakfast, take the ferry from Lopud back to Dubrovnik port and drive to the airport where the trip
ends, the first ferry departs Lopud at 6.20am, there are ferries throughout the day.
M E A L S PR O V I D E D : B R E A KFA ST
Trip informationTrip information
Croatia
Climate
The Croatian Adriatic has a Mediterranean climate with mild winters and warm, dry, sunny summers.
There is a chance of sporadic rain in spring and autumn, though generally it is in the form of short
showers. Thunderstorms can occur in summer, generally helping to cool the air. Hvar Island gets the
most sunshine in summer with 10-12 hours each day, followed by Split, Korcula Island and Dubrovnik
with around 7-8 hours. Temperatures from May to October are generally in the low to mid 20's (in °C),
but can reach into the 30's (in °C) in July and August. Trip itineraries with boat cruises can
occasionally be disrupted due to bad weather.
Time difference to GMT
+1
Plugs
2 Pin Round
Religion
Roman Catholic
Language
Croatian
Clothing
July and August are the hottest months, but early and late in the season go prepared with clothing to suit
drops in temperature and the showers. You'll need your swimming gear and a beach towel. Light rainwear
may be needed at any time of year.
Footwear
Comfortable walking shoes, trainers and sandals; footwear that you don't mind getting wet - a pair of old
trainers would be ideal or water shoes with a rubber sole.
DAY 8DAY 8 - Ferry back to Dubrovnik where the tour ends - Ferry back to Dubrovnik where the tour ends
Country informationCountry information
Budgeting and packingBudgeting and packing
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Luggage
20kg
Luggage: On tour
One main piece and a daypack. As there are no cars on the island of Lopud you will need to carry your
bag from the harbour to the guesthouse. The total walking time is no more than 10 minutes. For this
reason it is worth considering taking a suitable suitcase that can be easily carried.
Equipment
Lifejackets and dry bags for the stand up paddle boarding and kayaking excursions will be provided
locally. Consider bringing cycle gloves, handy to protect the hands when kayaking. A cycling helmet will
be provided for the bike day.
A water bottle and plenty of high factor sunscreen are all essential though and you may also wish to bring
your own mask, snorkel and shows suitable to wear in the water to protect from rocks and sea urchins.
Bring insect repellent with you as there are mosquitos, especially in the evening.
We also strongly recommend taking a cap or hat to protect the head from getting sunburnt in the strong
summer sun whilst kayaking.
There is no pharmacy on the island of Lopud so plan ahead and bring anything you might need. If
necessary we should be able to get emergency supplies shipped over from the mainland.
Money: Cash is still the best kind of money in Croatia. Markets will take credit cards but many small
restaurants will not. There is an ATM machine on Lopud island, but no bank or exchange office.
Tipping
Explore leader
At your discretion you might also consider tipping your Explore Leader in appreciation of the efficiency
and service you receive.
Local crew
In this region, tipping is a recognised part of life across the service industry. Local staff will look to
members of the group for personal recognition of particular services provided.
To assist with this your Explore Leader may organise a group tips kitty for included activities and meals,
they will then account for kitty use throughout the tour.
For this we suggest 150 Kuna per family member.
For all non-included services and meals on your trip please tip independently at your discretion.
Croatia
Food and drink
The costs for meals may vary depending upon location, type of restaurant and number of courses
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eaten and so the prices given are an average guide. Local restaurants located off the beaten track
may be less expensive, whereas an upmarket restaurant located in the centre of a major city may
charge more.
Dinner price
£18
Beer price
£2
Water price
£1.5
Foreign Exchange
Local currency
Croatian Kuna.
Recommended Currency For Exchange
Pound Sterling, US Dollars and Euro cash can all be exchanged for the local currency.
Where To Exchange
Most major towns and cities - your Explore Leader will advise you on arrival. Only exchange
money at reputable places like banks, ATM's and official Forex Offices.
ATM Availability
Most towns and cities have ATM's for cash withdrawal.
Credit Card Acceptance
Generally accepted throughout including most restaurants and hotels.
Travellers Cheques
Travellers Cheques can only be exchanged in banks.
Transport Information
Bus, Ferry
Accommodation notes
Our base for the week is a small locally owned guesthouse, located in the centre of car free Lopud Island,
within easy walking distance to the sea front. Breakfasts are served at our guesthouse, with a welcome
dinner included in a local taverna. There is a good selection of local bars and restaurants close by and the
beautiful Sunj beach is a twenty minute stroll away. For larger groups we will use two guesthouses
located close by to each other.
FCO Advice
We strongly recommend that you check your government's travel advisory for up-to-date information
Transport, Accommodation & MealsTransport, Accommodation & Meals
Essential InformationEssential Information
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and advice about your destination: safety and security, entry requirements, health, local laws and
customs. For UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office advice click here.
For more information from Explore about travel advice, click here
Under 18 immigration guidance
Please note that some countries require proof of parental consent when travelling overseas with under
18s. Please check requirements with the relevant embassy or consular office well in advance of travel if
this applies to your party.
Price Guarantee
Once your booking has been confirmed we guarantee the price will not increase, whatever the
circumstances. Before booking please ensure you have read our important tour pricing
information.Booking Conditions
Visa and Passport Information
Croatia: Visas are not required by UK, Australian, New Zealand, US or Canadian citizens. Other
nationalities should consult their local embassy or consular office.
If you do require assistance in obtaining a visa then you may be able to apply through Explore's
recommended visa service in the UK, Travcour. See www.travcour.com to download the relevant visa
application for your trip, if applicable (UK citizens only), along with details of how to apply for your visa
through Travcour. The Team at Travcour will be happy to answer specific questions relating to visa
applications, please call them directly on 0208 5431846.
It is your responsibility to ensure that you are in possession of a full passport, with the correct validity
for your chosen destination.
Booking conditions
Before booking your Explore trip, please ensure that you read both our Essential Information and
Booking Conditions.
Transfers
Find out more about Trip Transfer Terms and Conditions before you book.
Booking a land only package with Explore
Customers who have chosen to book on the ‘Land Only’ arrangements of our tour, please ensure that you
have checked your tour specific ‘Joining Instructions’ prior to booking your own travel arrangements.
Your joining instructions can be found below in the dates and prices information.
You may also be eligible for the Free Explore Transfer.
Joining Tour Abroad
Customers booked on the ‘Land Only’ arrangements will now receive a Free Transfer, provided you arrive
and depart on the tour only itinerary start and end dates. The complimentary transfers will be arranged
from the Explore designated airport or train station to your trips joining point, and then back from the
ending point to the designated airport or train station. Generally the airport or station that Explore have
selected will be the one that is closest to the town or city where the trip starts, or the one nearest to the
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joining point. It will be either an airport or train station but not both.
The exception to this rule is customers who are booked on a tour where the joining and ending point is at
the designated airport or train station.
Free transfers are not available for Self-Guided, Polar, Tailormade or Tours for Churches customers.
If you are not eligible for the Free Transfer then you will need to make your own way through to the
joining and ending point. On a majority of our tours Explore will be able to provide a private transfer at
an additional cost. Please ask for a quote at the time of booking.
For more information regarding the Explore Free Transfer click here
Insurance
It is a condition of booking with Explore that you have adequate valid travel insurance. It is your
responsibility to arrange appropriate travel insurance and ensure you have read and understood the full
terms and conditions of your travel insurance policy to ensure that you are covered for all activities you
intend to undertake whilst on the tour, including all optional activities. Your Insurance Policy must fully
cover you for medical expenses and emergency repatriation to your home country. Please ensure your
policy includes medical emergency helicopter evacuation in the event of illness or injury and covers the
entire duration of your holiday. If you are trekking at altitude please ensure that there is no upper
altitude limit which may limit or exclude cover for your trip. The cost of many of our Polar Voyages will
exceed the capped amount covered by standard insurance premiums and you will be required to pay an
additional premium to cover the full value of your trip. Please ensure that you are covered for the full
amount of your holiday cost, as insufficient cover could invalidate a claim under the policy. Medical and
repatriation insurance cover is not mandatory for UK residents who are travelling on trips within the
United Kingdom.
Read more information about what travel insurance is required.
Flight information
Explore offers a wide range of flexible flying options to make joining and leaving our trips easy. Read
more about them here.
Flight Information
You are able to book this tour on a 'land only' basis or as a ‘flight inclusive’ package. Your flight inclusive
package will be fully protected by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) ATOL protection scheme.
Booking a flight inclusive package with Explore
We have a good selection of flights not only from London but from many regional airports around the UK
allowing us to compare fares between scheduled carriers as well as low cost and charter airlines. Our
dedicated flights team will match the best flight options to your arrival and departure airport.
On our website we display a UK flight inclusive package guide price which is generally based on a London
departure. To avoid paying supplements or to secure your preferred flight option, we recommend
booking as early as possible, especially for peak travel dates.
Ability to swim
An ability to swim is essential for your safe enjoyment of this water based activity trip. If you wish to
participate in any of these activities then we insist that you are able to swim.
Croatia
Vaccinations
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Nothing compulsory, but we recommend being up-to-date with your routine vaccination courses and
boosters as recommended in the UK including protection against measles, mumps, rubella, tetanus,
diphtheria, hepatitis A, typhoid and polio. Tick-borne encephalitis protection is recommended by some
medical sources at certain times of the year. Ticks are most active between spring and late autumn. Please
check the latest requirements with your travel clinic or doctor prior to departure. The above is not an
exhaustive list. Further information regarding vaccinations and travel health advice can be found by
following the NHS and NaTHNaC links at Explore Travel Health and from your local healthcare provider.
Visa and vaccination requirements are subject to change and should be confirmed by you before
travelling.
Triple Rooms: This trip allows the option for triple rooms to be included at our
guesthouse for the entire duration of the holiday. If you would like this option, please ask
our Sales team for further information.
Average Age: As a guide we have estimated the average age of the children who have
travelled on similar trips over the the last 5 years, to help you decide whether it's the
right one for your family. The projected average age on this trip is 12 years old, this trip is
suitable for children of all ages.
Family informationFamily information
Additional InformationAdditional Information
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Why book this tripSpend a week on the beautiful island of Lopud, just a short ferry ride from Dubrovnik on the
Adriatic. Staying in locally run guesthouses, enjoy a full programme of sea kayaking, stand up
paddle boarding and cycling as well as ample time for snorkelling, swimming and relaxing on
the islands sandy beaches. Ideal for active families who love the water, we kayak around eight
to fifteen kilometres per day, no more than four hours in total in the kayaks, sometimes less.
This trip is ideal for families that want to get away from it all on the car free, care free islands of
Croatia.
AW A R D W I N N I N GE X PL O R E L E A D E R S
PR I C E G U A R A N T E E
PR O M I SE
A I R PO R T
T R A N SF E R S
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